Building Cyber Resilience in the Age of AI
September 9
St. Paul, MN
AI is changing how organizations work, make decisions, manage risk, and defend against cyber threats. It’s also changing the way attackers operate.
The 2026 Sovran Summit brings together cybersecurity experts, government leaders, operational technology specialists, and business decision-makers for one focused day of practical insight. You’ll hear from people who’ve worked inside military cyber defense, critical infrastructure, healthcare security, federal response, and private-sector cybersecurity.
Instead of vague predictions or AI hype, you’ll experience a working summit for leaders who need to understand what AI means for security, resilience, compliance, identity, operations, and business continuity.
AI has moved quickly from a discussion topic to an operational reality. Organizations are already using AI in workflows, productivity tools, security systems, data analysis, and decision-making. At the same time, attackers are using AI to move faster, impersonate more convincingly, and exploit gaps in identity, access, training, and response planning.
At this summit, you’ll learn how to prepare for the risks that are already here and the ones coming next.
You will leave with a clearer understanding of:
One day with cybersecurity leaders that most organizations never get in front of.
Founder, President & Chief Executive Officer | Iternal AI
John Byron Hanby IV is a passionate innovator focused on connecting people, knowledge, and ideas. Previously founded a top-rated Austin film production company, winning 65+ international awards. Founded Iternal, supplying enterprise-grade AI software, strategic advice, and education. Published 4 bestselling books, including The AI Strategy Blueprint. UT Austin graduate with a 3rd Degree Black Belt.
All registered attendees will receive a copy of The AI Strategy Blueprint, and John will be available for signings.
Cybersecurity Leader, Military Officer, & Resilience Strategist
Operational Technology Security Specialist
The full summit will have great speakers, including:
Sovran helps businesses and nonprofits make IT simpler, more secure, and more strategic. Based in Mendota Heights, Minnesota, Sovran provides managed IT services, cybersecurity and compliance support, cloud and data services, and practical technology guidance for organizations throughout Minnesota and the Upper Midwest.
The CISA Group is a cybersecurity assessment company that helps organizations improve security, meet compliance requirements, and reduce risk in a changing threat environment. Their team supports organizations through cybersecurity consulting, risk assessment, and compliance guidance, with expertise across standards such as CMMC, PCI DDS, HITRUST, HIPAA, GDPR, and NIST.
SecureLife by Synaptech helps high-exposure individuals protect their privacy, security, reputation, and family from targeted digital threats. Their team provides discreet, personal security support through services such as digital footprint audits, data broker suppression, device and account security, home and travel protection, identity monitoring, deepfake and impersonation defense, takedown support, and incident response.
Based in Minnesota, Blue Ox Websites & Marketing provides website design and development, secure hosting, ongoing maintenance, updates, and practical support to keep websites running smoothly over time. Their team also helps businesses promote their services through marketing strategy, content, SEO, and digital campaigns that connect the right message with the right audience.
The 2026 Sovran Summit will be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 411 Minnesota St., in St. Paul, MN, on Wednesday, September 9, 2026. The venue offers a convenient location for attendees traveling from the Twin Cities metro, greater Minnesota, and the Upper Midwest.
Who should attend the summit?
This summit is designed for business leaders, IT leaders, cybersecurity professionals, operations leaders, compliance teams, risk managers, nonprofit leaders, and anyone responsible for protecting systems, data, and operations as AI becomes part of the workplace.
Is the summit technical, strategic, or both?
Both. Some sessions will be built for technical attendees, while others will focus on leadership, planning, risk, response, and decision-making. Attendees can choose sessions based on their role and priorities.
What will I leave with?
You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of how AI is changing cybersecurity risk, what questions to ask internally, where your organization may be exposed, and how to strengthen resilience before an incident happens.
Will there be breakout sessions?
Yes. The summit is planned to include 15 breakout sessions across AI, cybersecurity, incident response, Zero Trust, operational technology, compliance, and resilience.
Will meals be provided?
Continental Breakfast & Lunch provided.
Is there a hotel block for attendees?
A small block of rooms is available at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Paul Downtown.
Are sponsorship opportunities available?
Yes. Exhibitor tables are available. Limit of 20 total. Reach out via our main contact form for more information.
